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      10-12-2014, 04:09 AM   #1
kinimod
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"Drivetrain malfunction" resolved - SIB 12-26-14

I've noticed multiple forum members reporting that they saw "Drivetrain malfunction", loss of power, and had to pull over.

There's a SIB on this issue and the car needs to go to the shop for software upgrade.

----------------------------

SI B12 26 14
Engine Electrical Systems
September 2014

Technical Service
SUBJECT
VANOS Faults Stored in DME (Bosch)

MODEL
All models with the following engines and Bosch DME:
N20, N26, N55, N63T, S55, and S63T
Produced to 7/2014

SITUATION
The Service Engine Soon (MIL) is on and the engine could go into a reduced power mode with the
“Drivetrain Malfunction” message displayed.
One or more of the VANOS faults listed in the attachment are stored in the DME, although the engine is
mechanically sound and no unusual noises can be heard from the VANOS area.
These control faults relate to implausible camshaft position (intake or exhaust), the camshaft stuck situation,
or the camshaft angle offset to crankshaft outside the tolerance range.

CAUSE
Due to unfavorable Engine Position Management (EPM) parameters in the DME software, various VANOS
control faults could be set.

CORRECTION
Perform the recommended test plans using the latest version of ISTA/D. Correct any VANOS hardware issues
found, as indicated by the test plan.
After performing necessary repairs, or in case the ISTA test plan is inconclusive, program the vehicle using
the latest version of ISTA/P.
Attached Images
File Type: pdf SIB 12 26 14.pdf (85.7 KB, 6531 views)
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      10-12-2014, 07:11 AM   #2
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Thank you for posting the SIB. I saw this error once just after starting the car. I think I'll get the update to be in the safe side, though there is always that small part of me that has reservations about engine-related reflashes.
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      10-12-2014, 08:50 AM   #3
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Quote:
Originally Posted by mkoesel View Post
Thank you for posting the SIB. I saw this error once just after starting the car. I think I'll get the update to be in the safe side, though there is always that small part of me that has reservations about engine-related reflashes.
I agree with your apprehension, this is how it all started with the N54. Flashes for HPFP and long cold crank starts. SIBs issued to fix the problems, well they fixed all the fun out of the car as well.
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      10-12-2014, 12:05 PM   #4
RussDC
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I just had another one of those. Every day something else is coming up!!! I am getting sick of this car already. As much as i love to drive it, it is unacceptable for a 70+k car
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      10-12-2014, 12:10 PM   #5
kinimod
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Interesting that I've never had this issue in 4000 miles. (My car production date is 7/23/14. SIB notes that 7/14 cars are affected.)
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      10-13-2014, 02:33 AM   #6
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Sounds like they don't even really know how to fix it.
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      10-13-2014, 05:08 AM   #7
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Is there one of these bulletins for stock exhaust replacement.
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      10-14-2014, 06:04 PM   #8
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Should I ask tech to perform this update next time I visit the dealer?
Or is this something that they will do automatically?
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      10-14-2014, 07:11 PM   #9
kinimod
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Quote:
Originally Posted by parky1215
Should I ask tech to perform this update next time I visit the dealer?
Or is this something that they will do automatically?
Print out the SIB and bring it your dealer. They are usually clever enough to discover it but not always.
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      10-17-2014, 10:50 AM   #10
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Quote:
Originally Posted by kinimod View Post
Print out the SIB and bring it your dealer. They are usually clever enough to discover it but not always.
I will do that. Thanks!
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      09-01-2015, 09:11 PM   #11
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The light just came on for me
4200 miles
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      11-01-2015, 08:25 PM   #12
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4950 miles and the light came on again
Now im not sure if i want to mess with a tune on such a sensitive car
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      11-10-2015, 11:54 PM   #13
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2300 miles and it came on for me as well. Car couldn't start then tried again and "Drivetrain Malfunction" popped up. Going to take it in tomorrow
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      11-13-2015, 12:02 AM   #14
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I have had the same drivetrain malfunction alert come on 3-4 times in the last few weeks at about 4k miles. It goes away by shutting down and restarting.
I need to take the car in but I don't want to have them de-tune the car. Has anyone had their dealer Fix this problem? Any drawbacks? Car feels very strong besides the occasional drivetrain malfunction, would hate to loose power or response.
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      08-25-2019, 09:36 PM   #15
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I’ve got 19k miles on my 2017 m3 ZCP and I recently started getting these “drivetrain malfunction” alerts. Took it to BMW because it kept appearing after driving a few miles and going away when turning off the car and turning it back on. Initially, BMW tried to tell me some BS that I was getting this alert because I was low on fuel. Seemed strange because I had nearly 3/4 of a tank. I took it to an independent shop to get a diagnostic and I had 3 codes. “Charge air temperature too high,” “charging pressure control shut off as consequence,” and “auxiliary coolant pump dry running.” I notified my SA of these codes and he immediately backtracked saying that there is a memo out by BMWNA for a fix. Dealer is now replacing my expansion tank, radiator, and intercooler. BMWNA apparently knows that this a common problem, but will not issue a recall.
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      08-26-2019, 07:38 AM   #16
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This is an old thread but helpful info, thanks
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      08-26-2019, 01:42 PM   #17
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Quote:
Originally Posted by atlf80m3 View Post
I’ve got 19k miles on my 2017 m3 ZCP and I recently started getting these “drivetrain malfunction” alerts. Took it to BMW because it kept appearing after driving a few miles and going away when turning off the car and turning it back on. Initially, BMW tried to tell me some BS that I was getting this alert because I was low on fuel. Seemed strange because I had nearly 3/4 of a tank. I took it to an independent shop to get a diagnostic and I had 3 codes. “Charge air temperature too high,” “charging pressure control shut off as consequence,” and “auxiliary coolant pump dry running.” I notified my SA of these codes and he immediately backtracked saying that there is a memo out by BMWNA for a fix. Dealer is now replacing my expansion tank, radiator, and intercooler. BMWNA apparently knows that this a common problem, but will not issue a recall.
guarantee it was the top mount intercooler with an internal leak. this means coolant was going into your exhaust manifold. you should insist they change your plugs as well. i know because it happened to me right after my car was out of warranty
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      07-27-2020, 07:12 PM   #18
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Just curious, but why change spark plugs too if you're not getting mis-fire faults after the leak is fixed?
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